Biology Course Syllabus
Instructor:
Mrs. Michele Baugh, Ed.S.
E-mail mbaugh@tcjackets.net
Required Textbook: Desalle, R., et al. (2008). Holt Biology: U.S.A.: Holt, Rinehart, and Winston.
Course Description:
The objective of this course is to develop an understanding of biological concepts using the scientific process. Explorations and
application of key concepts will be conducted through lab experiments and various learning strategies including self-questioning
and visual learning approaches. Students in Biology will be expected to complete a basic curriculum that includes the application
of concepts and writing proficiency related to the topics advanced Molecular Genetics, Cellular Energetics, and Biodiversity in
line with the content prescribed by the GPS. These objectives adhere to the preservation of the following Georgia Performance
Standards (GPS).
SB1.Students will analyze the nature of the relationships between structures and functions in living cells.
SB2.Students will analyze how biological traits are passed on to successive generations.
SB3.Students will derive the relationship between single-celled and multi-celled organisms and the increasing complexity of
systems.
SB4.Students will assess the dependence of all organisms on one another and the flow of energy and matter within their
ecosystems.
SB5.Students will evaluate the role of natural selection in the development of the theory of evolution.
Attendance: Attendance is essential for maintaining successful progress in this course. The instructor must inform the student’s
family in the event of excessive absenteeism. A letter will be mailed to the parent or guardian of any student who reaches 5
unexcused absences during the school year. Subsequent absenteeism will be handled by the administration.
Special Needs Statement:
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, arrangements will be made for students who require special assistance
due to a disability. If you require some assistance, do not hesitate to inform the instructor.
Course Grade Composition:
Each student will be graded according to their ability to execute the objectives of course components. The components of this
course will be weighed in the following manner as determined by the Science Department of TCCHS.
Tests 35%
Labs and Activities 30%
Daily Work and Quizzes 25%
Benchmarks 10%
Make-Up Work:
It is the students’ responsibility to get any work or handouts that may be missed during an absence. Any student who misses a
lab, activity, quiz or test must make an appointment with the instructor to make up the missing item.
Reading in Content Area:
In compliance with GPS science characteristics, all students will be required to read content related materials to enhance the
curriculum. Reading requirements include current articles and completion of “The Double Helix” by James D. Watson. According
to SCSh9. Students will enhance reading in all curriculum areas by: Reading in all curriculum areas and reading both
informational and fictional texts in a variety of genres and modes of discourse.
Suggested Supplies:
2 inch binder dividers
filler paper
pens and pencils
highlighter
colored pencils
index cards
Standardized Testing:
EOCT – It is a comprehensive exam that measures student achievement in the area of Biology. It will be based on the Georgia
Performance Standards (GPS) listed on the first page of this syllabus. The Georgia State Board of Education adopted the EOCT
Program to comply with the A+ Educational Reform Act of 2000 (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-281). The EOCT will comprise 20% of the
students’ final grade.
Homework:
Students should spend a minimum of 15 minutes daily reviewing class notes and complete all daily assigned homework in a
timely manner.
Classroom Rules:
Students are expected to act in an orderly manner at all times.
Students must show respect for all persons including themselves at all times. Any discrepancy that a student wishes to question
or discuss with the instructor must be handled during a one on one basis after class time.
As stated in the student handbook of TCCHS, students are expected to do their own work. For example, cheating consists of
intent to deceive the instructor by copying from outside sources or another student. The resulting penalty for cheating will be a
zero for the first offense and failure of this course for a second offense.
All students must be punctual.
Unnecessary talking must not interfere with the teaching- learning process.
Students are required to be in class during the assigned times, therefore, restroom breaks and class preparation must be
handled at the appropriate times. Plan ahead.
School property must be treated with care as if it were your own.
Student seating will be maintained in a neat and orderly manner.
Food, gum, and drinks must be left outside of this classroom.
Cell phones must not be visible nor disturb class unless being used for educational purposes with teacher permission.
Course Outline:
Grading Period
Domain of Study
Topics
Cell Structure and Function
Macromolecules
First Nine Weeks
Cells Domain
Enzymes
Cell Transport and Homeostasis
DNA and RNA
Mendelian Genetics
Second Nine Weeks
Genetics Domain
Cell Reproduction
Genetic Variation
Biotechnology
Classification
Organisms Domain
Biodiversity
Viruses
Third Nine Weeks
Evolutionary History and Trends
Cladograms
Evolution Domain
Phylogeny
Natural Selection
Biosphere Levels of Organization
Ecology Domain
Interdependence of Organisms
Fourth Nine Weeks
Human Impact on Environment
EOCT Review
Review Test Domains